Sunday 9 Nov 2025
Not from the Pulpit: Fr Richard Leonard SJ PP
This week our prayers of thanksgiving go to God for the Sisters of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary who formally merged with their sister order, the Congregation of Jesus. The much-loved Australian sisters will remain known as Loretos, but their letters have changed from IBVM to CJ. This completes their foundress Mary Ward’s dream (1585 – 1645) for all her sisters to be one religious family. The new CJs constitute 2,100 sisters serving in 42 countries on five continents. Our parish is proud to have been blest with the great gifts, love and service of Christ and the Church of the CJs for the last 117 years.
On another item of church administration, our congratulations go to a member of our parish Jesuit Community, Brett O’Neill SJ, who has been appointed a Consultor to the Australian Jesuit Provincial. He joins four other Jesuits in this vital leadership position in our governance structure. Brett remains the national director of Jesuit Refugee Service and will help in the parish with weekday and Sunday Masses as and when he can.
Peggy Lim has volunteered as a parish catechist in our local State schools for 25 years. At the Annual Archdiocesan Catechist Mass Peggy, along with catechists across the Archdiocese, will be recognised for her passion, dedication, and commitment. The Mass on November 16 will be celebrated at St Mary’s Cathedral at 2.30pm. Our deepest thanks and blessings go with her in this richly deserved honour.
After last week’s 8am Mass at Kirribilli, a parishioner returned to the car park to find a large graze on the rear right side of her car. (pictured) It appears to have been caused by a white vehicle. Unfortunately, no note or contact details were left on the windshield. Very sadly, the parish insurance does not cover vehicles in our car parks. If you know anything about it, please contact me. The driver will be at 8am Mass again this Sunday in case this notice prompts anyone’s memory.
Where Faith Meets Culture - A Review by Fr Richard Leonard
Women Companions in Spirituality
Sun 9 Nov @ 1.30 - 4.30pm, Ron Dyer Centre
Guests: Dr Carmel Bendon & Sr Jan Barnett rsj on the 14th‑century mystic Julian of Norwich. Book now at: www.trybooking.com/DGEHJ Contact: Teresa womensministry@northsydneycatholics.com
Christmas Breakfast
Fri 21 Nov following the 7.30am Mass, St Francis Xavier. All very Welcome.
Jesuit Social Services (JSS) Ignite Food Store Parish Appeal - Weekend 29/30 Nov
The Ignite Food Store Emerton provides low cost, groceries to low-income families. Your generosity makes a huge difference to the local community. Grocery bags and donation envelopes will be in all churches on appeal weekend. www.jss.org.au/westernsydney
Lolesio Family Choir, accompanied by the Holy Family Parish Choir visit St Mary’s
Sun 30 Nov @ 6.00pm, St Mary’s Church, North Sydney
We warmly welcome the Lolesio Family Choir, who will join members of the Holy Family Parish Choir to lead the music at the 6pm Youth Mass on Sunday, 30 November. This special liturgy will be a joyful celebration of faith, music, and community. We invite everyone to join us in welcoming them to our parish. Following Mass, all are welcome to stay for a BBQ in the RDC.
THE CARDONER NETWORK - JOURNEY OF THE SOUL
Attention 18–25-year-olds! Here's your chance to embark on a life-changing 3-week "journey of the soul" in the breathtaking Himalayas in Nepal. Join a group of like-minded young adults for an unforgettable adventure — trekking through remote mountain villages, immersing in rich local culture, and embracing moments of silence, reflection, and connection. Older adults: If you'd be prepared to sponsor a young adult parishioner, please contact Fr Ramesh: 0426 366 544. More info/registration via this link: www.thecardonernetwork.org/immersions/
Fr Richard Leonard’s SJ PP HOMILIES
In his homilies, Fr Richard offers thoughtful insights, real-world connections, and a deep sense of faith to guide us through the week. Whether you’re part of our parish or watching from afar, we hope these reflections bring you encouragement and inspiration. View now on the Parish YouTube Channel